ROBERT Burns Academy pupils and community volunteers have planted a ‘Wee Forest’ in Cumnock.

Around 600 native trees were planted by the team in an area the size of a tennis court beside the Lugar Water path on the Barony Campus, which will be used as an outdoor learning space where people can enjoy nature.

The Wee Forests initiative is part of a £500,000 Scottish Government funded project, led by Nature Scot, which will see schools and local communities planting 20 Wee Big plans for Wee Forests as kids get digging at tree planting project Forests across the country.

NatureScot Wee Forests project officer, Karen Morrison, said: “Wee Forests are not only a great way to help people connect with nature closer to home, they also can inspire the next generation to care for it.”

As the Wee Forest area is capable of attracting 500 plant and animal species within its first three years, it is hoped it will help children learn about climate change and the value of urban trees.

Those involved in the initiative will take part in ‘citizen science’ activities, including monitoring the butterflies that use the forests, calculating the amount of carbon captures and measuring the impact trees have on slowing down the run-off from rainstorms.

Project manager at East Ayrshire Woodlands, Bruce Davidson, explained:“The Wee Forest project will provide an opportunity for our tree and timber apprentices to learn new practical skills that will help with Scotland’s green recovery.

“East Ayrshire Woodlands, in partnership with East Ayrshire Council and East Ayrshire Leisure, recognises the importance of the forestry and land management sector and has created an excellent vocational programme for our young people.”

Anneke Freel , East Ayrshire Leisure’s chief officer, said “The planting will not only be a valuable outdoor learning resource for young people, it also creates new habitat for wildlife and enhances the beauty of these areas for communities.”